The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has recently allocated over $4.3 million for repairs to recreational and tourism projects in Puerto Rico, focusing on the Punta Maracayo Camping area in Hatillo and the Villas de Añasco resort, according to a press release. This funding is part of FEMA’s broader effort to revitalize Puerto Rico’s tourism industry and strengthen its infrastructure against future natural disasters.
Tourism plays a vital role in Puerto Rico’s economy, especially in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. The hurricane caused an estimated $43 billion in economic damage to the island, according to a USA Today report. By investing in tourism infrastructure, FEMA is contributing to the long-term economic recovery of Puerto Rico.
Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero emphasized the significance of these projects, stating, “These accommodations, as an alternative to traditional inns, serve a tourism focused on developing a connection with nature. Our agency is aware of how important it is to support projects that contribute to diverse offerings for Puerto Rico’s social and economic development, while encouraging to value our coasts and natural resources.” This statement underscores FEMA’s support for accessible tourism as part of the island’s recovery process.
The Villas de Añasco resort is set to receive over $4 million from FEMA through the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER). This substantial investment will fund a comprehensive range of repairs and improvements, including the replacement of light poles and infrastructure for electricity and water services. The project also encompasses repairs to administrative offices, concession stand, lifeguard area, convention center, cabins, swimming pools, and camping site.
One of the key aspects of the Villas de Añasco project is the implementation of hazard mitigation measures. These include the installation of hurricane-resistant roofs and panels, storm shutters for doors and windows, and structure reinforcement using hurricane-resistant fasteners. Additionally, the convention center will receive waterproof acoustic ceiling tiles to prevent mold from water infiltration. These measures align with the FEMA Wind Retrofit Guide, which provides technical information on wind retrofit projects for residential buildings.
The Punta Maracayo Camping area, open to the public seven days a week for around 30 years, is also benefiting from FEMA’s funding. This facility features a water park with waterfalls and pools, huts near the Sardinera beach, and an open area with water and power service for trailers. According to TripAdvisor reviews, Punta Maracayo has been a beloved destination for both locals and tourists, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and beautiful coastal location.
FEMA allocated over $332,000 for work such as replacing roofs, air conditioners and kitchen cabinets, as well as painting certain areas of the facilities at Punta Maracayo. The project also includes hazard mitigation measures similar to those at Villas de Añasco, focusing on strengthening roofs and protecting structures from strong winds. These improvements are crucial for enhancing the resilience of tourism infrastructure, as outlined in the FEMA Mitigation Action Portfolio.
The agency also allocated over $20,000 to replace the contents of the Punta Maracayo hotel facilities: tables, beds, kitchen appliances, and televisions, among other equipment. This comprehensive approach to refurbishment aims to enhance the overall guest experience and bring the facilities up to modern standards.
The executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, highlighted the cultural significance of these resorts, saying, “These resorts have a special meaning for Puerto Ricans who traditionally used to enjoy family vacations in these accommodations. Now, thanks to FEMA’s contribution, they will be rebuilt by implementing mitigation measures to make the infrastructure resilient and prevent further damage in the event of other natural disasters, so that future generations can continue to enjoy these recreational spaces.”
The rebuilding efforts are not only focused on repairing damage but also on creating more resilient structures that can withstand future natural disasters. This approach is in line with FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program, which supports hazard mitigation projects, reducing the risks communities face from disasters and natural hazards.
These projects are part of a larger initiative by FEMA to support Puerto Rico’s recovery, with the agency allocating over $33.9 billion for over 11,000 projects across the island. They serve as examples of how disaster recovery funds can be used to not only repair damage but also to improve and modernize facilities, making them more attractive to visitors and more resilient to future challenges.